Red wine is a broad category that encompasses many different types and styles of wine. Cabernet, on the other hand, refers specifically to a grape variety called Cabernet Sauvignon. So, the main difference between red wine and Cabernet is that Cabernet is a specific type of red wine made from the Cabernet Sauvignon grape.
The Cabernet Sauvignon grape is known for its thick skins, which give the wine its rich color and intense flavor. These thick skins also contribute to the full-bodied nature of Cabernet wines. When the grapes are crushed, the skins are left in contact with the juice during fermentation, allowing the wine to extract more color, tannins, and flavor compounds.
One of the key characteristics of Cabernet wines is their deep purple or black color. This color comes from the pigments in the grape skins, which are more concentrated in Cabernet Sauvignon compared to other red grape varieties. The dark color is often associated with the intense and bold flavors found in Cabernet wines.
In terms of flavor, Cabernet wines are known for their rich and complex profiles. They often have aromas of dark fruits like blackberry and blackcurrant, as well as hints of spice, tobacco, and cedar. The tannins in Cabernet wines are typically firm and structured, which gives the wine a long and lingering finish.
Another important factor that sets Cabernet apart from other red wines is its ability to age well. Cabernet Sauvignon is known for its aging potential, as the high tannin levels and acidity help the wine develop and mature over time. This means that a well-made Cabernet can be enjoyed for many years, evolving in flavor and complexity as it ages.
It's worth mentioning that while Cabernet Sauvignon is the most well-known and widely planted grape variety used to make Cabernet wines, there are other grape varieties that can be labeled as Cabernet. For example, Cabernet Franc and Cabernet Sauvignon are often blended together to create Bordeaux-style wines. However, these wines will still have many of the characteristics associated with Cabernet, such as the deep color and bold flavors.
The main difference between red wine and Cabernet is that Cabernet refers specifically to a wine made from the Cabernet Sauvignon grape. Cabernet wines are known for their rich color, full-bodied nature, and complex flavors. The thick skins of the Cabernet Sauvignon grape contribute to these characteristics, as well as its ability to age well.